Hanging Out With The Duchess

A PLACE WHERE I EXPRESS MY THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON MUSIC, LIFE, EVENTS, TRAVEL, LOTR, HP, TV, NEWS, PEACE MOVEMENT, POLITICS AND EVEN MOVIES

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Happy Halloween!

Iraq War Profiteer Spends Millions on Himself, Leaves Troops with Shoddy Body ArmorHowie Klein, AlterNetWhat ever happened to the good old days when war profiteers and traitors undermining our soldiers in the field were put against a wall and shot? (Yes, unlike many of my liberal pals, I'm a death penalty fanatic-- although just when the punishment fits the crime-- like in the case of the Bush Regime cronies who have long and solid records of treasonous criminality.)http://www.alternet.org/blogs/peek/66523/

Weapons Industry Dumps Republicans, Backs HillaryLeonard Doyle, Independent UKMrs. Clinton's wooing of the defense industry is all the more remarkable given the frosty relations between Bill Clinton and the military during his presidency. An analysis of campaign contributions shows senior defense industry employees are pouring money into her war chest in the belief that their generosity will be repaid many times over with future defense contracts.http://www.alternet.org/stories/65869/

[Duchess Note: Doesn't surprise me, she's soooo anal in her hawkishness. For those Americans, who think the Clinton Cow will be your savior, think again! She’s neither liberal nor progressive, but pretty much Republican loosely wearing the mantel of Democrat. This individual will stop at nothing to being president of the US of A and all for the wrong reasons. She’s in tight with corporations, insurance, big pharma and defense industry. If you think she cares about poor or middle class American’s, think again. NO WAY!! With the conservative corporate mainstream media, many Americans are misinformed of what’s really going on. Lots of spin, lies, half truths and omitting of crucial facts. Many will not take the time to search for the truth and rely on the likes of MSNBC and Fox News. Thankfully not all Americans are brainwashed by such garbage. I met many liberals, progressives and activists at the recent march and rally hosted by UFPJ. It was great seeing these folk out and about. Our numbers are growing throughout the US and it’s a beautiful sight to behold. Its time to bring forth the truth loud and clear, as well as tear down the corruption in Washington DC. We shall prevail and bring about a new, better American that honors Democracy.]

Monday, October 29, 2007

Thousands March Across the Country for Impeachment and to End the WarHere in New York City the demonstration received a strong turnout despite a steady downpour. March organizers estimated the crowd at 45,000. ImpeachBush.org mobilized people from around the East Coast, and throngs of attendees were seen with impeachment signs.

[Duchess Note: Despite the weather on Saturday, marchers and even myself, were out in full force to protest war and demand impeachment of the warmongers in Wash DC. I was in Foley Square with other groups [braving the rain & wind] and ready to greet them, as well as hand out free literature. Those of us in Foley Square accepted donations for buttons, bumper stickers, posters, t-shirts, etc. The NYC Kucinich Team did very well, despite being put in the last tent by UFPJ, and several of our team circulated the crowd getting word out on the campaign. It was great talking with many of the protesters and activists. Strength through Peace.]Administration Needs to Heed Advice of IAEA Director – Says There Is NO Concrete Evidence Iran is Working to Build Nuclear WeaponsPress Release by Congressman Kucinichhttp://www.commondreams.org/news2007/1030-07.htm

War Protests: Why No Coverage?Jerry Lanson, Christian Science Monitorhttp://www.commondreams.org/archive/2007/10/30/4907/I’m not suggesting here that the Times or any news organization should be in collusion with a movement - pro-war or antiwar, pro-choice or pro-life, pro-government or pro-privatization. I am suggesting that news organizations cover the news - that they inform the public about any widespread effort to give voice to those who share a widely held view about any major national issue.

[Duchess Note: One of the readers of this article made the following observation … “We are marching to the wrong places. We should march on the corporate headquarters of all of the major news media. This could include strike lines such that media employees themselves would have to decide whether or not to cross.” Very good point, also, marching on the weekend means most NYC office workers and such are at home. Best to do an effective march or protest during a work week. I’ll gladly take a vacation or personal day from work to participate, as I feel that strongly about what is happening to this country. We must ALL come together as one, raise our collective voices in protest AND stand up to these corrupt, arrogant bullies. They can be defeated! Remember … strength through love, peace, justice, truth and honor.]

PEACE QUOTE OF THE DAY ... We look forward to the time when the Power of Love will replace the Love of Power. Then will our world know the blessings of peace. William Gladstone (1809-1898)

UPDATES ON THE KUCINICH PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN AND OTHER NEWS

NOTE: Democratic Presidential Debates on Tuesday, October 30th at 8pm on MSNBC

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

PERSONAL NEWS #131On Tuesday, October 2nd, I attended a Democratic Endorsement meeting with another member of the NYC Kucinich campaign team. Veronica and I headed up to Riverdale via commuter bus after work. The meeting took place at the Ben Franklin Reformed Democrats Club and about 30+ members were in attendance. Veronica spoke passionately for 5 minutes and did a Q&A on behalf of Congressman Kucinich. There were speakers representing Gravel, Edwards, Obama and Clinton. One could tell from many comments and side conversations that this group was predominately pro-Clinton. Despite that it was an interesting evening, fascinating conversations and we handed out some Kucinich info. We left there around 9:30pm and took the subway back to Manhattan.

Thursday, October 4th, was the monthly NYC Kucinich Team meetup at the 11th Street Bar. We had a nice turnout for the meetup with some new faces. Alot of info to cover, as primary ballot petitioning starts end of this month. [What we really need is more volunteers, team captains and petition coordinators.] There were a lot of announcements to make and a few other members also contributed, which is very nice. The gist of the meetup discussion centered on statewide and delegate petitioning for signatures. Statewide the congressman will need 5000+ signatures to get him on the ballot for the February 5th primary.

Friday, October 5th, did volunteer work for City Harvest at the Union Square farmers market.

Sunday morning, October 7th, I met up with Anthony and Jessica at Port Authority to take a bus up to Timdalf’s abode north of Nyack, NY. The ride up was pleasant, and we passed through Piermont and Nyack, NY. I very much want to go back one day and check out these charming towns next to the Hudson River. At Timdalf’s place we were joined by several other members of the “Northeast Tolkien Society” [photo below] to celebrate Bilbo & Frodo’s birthday with a picnic. The day was sunny, warm and with some clouds floating by. I brought up homemade brownies and a container of my own special trail mix concoction. After viewing Timdalf’s apartment; which is full of a variety of books, swords, LOTRs collectibles, Russian icons and other items; we gathered under a tree with two picnic tables. There we spread out all the delicious food, wine, soda, plates, napkins and utensils. Timdalf provided holiday party crackers, sparklers and other fun items. Then it was party time! [Out the window of the apartment came music from FOTR movie soundtrack.] Timdalf read the chapter on Bilbo’s 111th birthday from “Fellowship of the Ring”, while we drank wine and made “sound effects” to go along with the story. Nothing distasteful, but still amusing all the same, and caused much giggling. [Jessica and I were especially silly.]

Anthony read the first chapter from “The Hobbit”, which sparked my interest, as I haven’t read that book in 20 years. At one point, that afternoon, I got into conversation with Jessica and Mary on the Harry Potter books. Always happy to encounter other Harry Potter fans and have abit of a chat. Overall it was a delightful afternoon, terrific conversations and good companionship with folk of the Shire. The ride back to Manhattan took a long time and we were very tired upon arrival. Good food, wine, laughter and sunshine … excellent combo.

[Duchess Note: The above article is not only about the film SiCKO, but also about Kucinich and PDA (Progressive Democrats of America). Supposedly PDA is the most progressive wing of the Democratic Party and yet many of its members would rather support corporate-bought Edwards than Kucinich. The latter candidate doesn’t take any money or bribes from corporations, insurance companies or oil firms. (Another reason why I support DJK 100%.) The proposed “insurance plans” by Obama, Clinton and Edwards favors the insurance companies and NOT the majority of Americans. Whereas Kucinich’s proposal and legislation (HR676) will benefit ALL Americans.]

Kucinich Senses 'Groundswell' - The presidential hopeful decries the Iraq war in front of a receptive crowd in Laguna WoodsRichard Chang, The Orange County Register

Hardly anyone thinks he's going to win, even carry a single state, but that isn't discouraging him at all. Democratic presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich paid a visit to Laguna Woods on Saturday morning, urging an immediate end to the war in Iraq and calling for a withdrawal from the North American Free Trade Agreement and the World Trade Organization. The Ohio congressman, campaigning in California this weekend, warned that President Bush is starting to beat the drum for war against Iran, and that Israel would bear the brunt of any such attack. Kucinich said oil is controlling U.S. foreign policy.

"Since the oil is running everything, does the oil belong to us, or do we belong to oil?" the 61-year-old politician asked a receptive audience of about 170 people. "The next president of the United States has an obligation to be a peacemaker. You can bomb the world to pieces, but you can't bomb the world to peace." After arriving hand-in-hand with wife Elizabeth, 29, Kucinich spoke for about 20 minutes at the event organized by the Laguna Woods Democratic Club. Kucinich's speech was greeted by enthusiastic applause and hearty cheers and whistles. Attendees, most of them seniors, said they were impressed.

"He's a good speaker, and he desperately needs air time," said Joan Utas, 82, of Laguna Woods. "It's good, especially when people are older and can't travel far, that people come to them." "He's a little guy, but a real firecracker," said Frank Yturralde of Laguna Woods, a self-described entertainer and baby boomer. He added, however, that he'll vote for whoever gets nominated in the Democratic primary. California's presidential primary is February 5th. Sharon Barrier, 68, of Irvine said she didn't think Kucinich, who trails significantly in the polls behind Sens. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., and Barack Obama, D-Ill., "has a chance in the world." Still, she said she appreciated his visit and hoped other candidates would listen to his message.

This wasn't Kucinich's first appearance in Orange County. He was here in March, and Friday he attended the county Democratic Party's annual Harry S. Truman Awards Dinner in Anaheim. On Saturday, he followed the clubhouse meeting with private receptions and fundraisers in Laguna Woods, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Margarita and Calabasas. Kucinich, who ran unsuccessfully for president in 2004, said he believed a "groundswell" of support was developing, despite single-digit results in the polls. "As people hear the message, they're getting involved in this campaign. If you look at the last few weeks … a big article in Esquire magazine, appearances on Letterman, Leno, on Colbert, people are starting to respond to this message."

He added that he didn't mind being a frequent joke on late-night TV shows. "The same shows are inviting me on for serious discussions," he said. "So that's an easy price to pay. I take what I do seriously, but I never take myself seriously."

The Brad Blog Speaks with Dennis & his Wife about Voting Rights, Election Reform, Impeachment & the Need for an Outcry from the American People – Congressman Kucinich Vows to us “Privileged Resolution” to Force Vote on Impeachment of Cheney in US House ... http://www.bradblog.com/?p=5196

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to Linda in TX for these articles on Kucinich.]

Friday, October 19, 2007

What “60 Minutes” Correspondent Andy Rooney Thinks about Women Over 40"As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why ... A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, "What are you thinking?" She doesn't care what you think. If a woman over 40 doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it's usually more interesting. Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it. Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated. Women get psychic as they age.

You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40. Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart. Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off if you are a jerk if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her! Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal. For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress. Ladies, I apologize. For all those men who say, "Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?", here's an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!

[Duchess Note: Recently had another birthday and still a terrific 40-something lady. A friend of mine shared the above statement with me. Thank you Mr. Rooney in seeing us “Over 40” ladies as special. You’re a smart man.]

Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH), released the following statement after voting to override President Bush's veto on SCHIP this afternoon:“I voted to override the President’s veto. In the previous SCHIP vote, the Democrats left out up to 600,000 children of immigrants, so I voted against the bill. The President left out all children, so of course I voted to override,” Kucinich said. “The bill’s failure to provide coverage for legal immigrants is wrong. All children deserve health care coverage. Health care is a right, not a privilege. The denial of a life-saving service based on an arbitrary length of citizenship is simply wrong. “It is the responsibility of Congress to address the main difficulties that prevent legal immigrant children from gaining access to health care.

This bill does exactly the opposite, which is why I voted against the bill after the Senate negotiators refused to provide health benefits to legal immigrant children. Negotiating away health care for 400,000-600,000 children as a political compromise is not acceptable. “The President chooses to ignore the crisis created by the number of underinsured people by vetoing a bill that would have not only covered uninsured children but provided better coverage for many who are one illness away from losing their money and their home. “HR 676, the Expanded and Improved Medicare for All Act captures the enormous savings to be had if Americans had health care provided through Medicare and uses them to cover everyone for all medically necessary services with no copayments, no deductibles and no premiums. I am the coauthor of the bill. This bill is the only true solution for the health care needs of America,” Kucinich said.

Great Commentary from Kucinich Blog – “I No Longer Fear the Kucinich Revolution” [August 2007]Most folks I know have a preferred candidate - Hillary, Obama, Edwards or Gore. But the crazy thing is, they will turn right around and say, “You know who I really want to vote for? Kucinich.” I have those same feelings. I love Kucinich and think he would make the best President. His values most closely resemble my own. Why not vote for him? Irrational fear. Total fear that the Republicans will lie about Kucinich and Fred Thompson will win the election. Wait, the GOP is gonna lie anyway, no matter what, so why the fear?

One thing I finally noticed about Kucinich during the AFL-CIO debate was how Kucinich always made more points during his allotted time than other candidates. I have been thinking about this and found the answer when I was reading the transcript. Kucinich doesn’t equivocate. He doesn’t dance around an issue. He goes straight for the explanation and since his past is not littered with idiotic support of bad bills, HE has nothing to fear, so why do I?

Yes, why do I fear? Do I think Hillary can win? No. I think she loses the election, the second she is nominated. Isn’t THAT something to fear? Do we think Fred Thompson, Gingrich or whatever other ass-wipe the GOP nominates will give a s--t about universal healthcare, the environment or peace? Nope, it will be a straight continuation of 8 years of BushCo. Isn’t my fear displaced?

Who is the strongest Democrat in Congress? Kucinich!

What Congressman never LOST their spine in the politically crushing days after 9-11? Kucinich!

Who knows how to answer a direct question asked by We the People? Kucinich!

I think something changed for Kucinich during the AFL-CIO debate. I can’t put my finger on it, but something changed. Maybe it was his eagerness to address “We the People” with truth, honesty and integrity? Maybe it was just the other candidates equivocating on whatever nonsense answer their staff prepared for them months ago? Maybe it was because the other candidates showed fear and Kucinich didn’t. He never flinched. That is leadership as I see it.

And from this point forward I will NOT fear to support Kucinich. He is just like me. My values are the same as his. If I was in Congress, I would vote like he does. I no longer fear. I refuse to allow the GOP to manipulate me into supporting lesser candidates. That just might be called courage.

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to Linda in TX for sharing these great articles. I, in turn, want to share them with you all. Strength through peace.]

[NOTE: New updates for “Personal News” will be posted soon. In the meantime, there are updates for activities from August and September posted further down this blog. Check it out today!]

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

PERSONAL NEWS #130NOTE: Another large batch of “Personal News” updates leftover from a busy summer. The autumn will be abit busy as well, what with petition signatures to collect for Democratic Presidential candidate [Congressman Kucinich]. As always, my sincere apologies to regular viewers of the Duchess Blog with yet another condensed version. Going forward I’ll work on being more frequent with updates. And now on with the news……………

I spent the Labor Day holiday weekend, Sept 1st through Sept 4th, visiting my parents in upstate NY and had a nice, relaxing visit. Mom and I checked out several yard sales, visit Manchester [VT], plus did some yard work around the house. Dad took us out to dinner one evening to a nice Italian place. I stopped by “Over the Moon” bead shop to stock up on my supplies, as well as chat with Sarah and Heather.

Thursday, September 6th, was the monthly NYC Kucinich Team campaign meetup and we held it at a new location [11th Street Bar in East Village]. Turnout was decent and considerably better than when it was held at Bonobo’s. Discussion mostly centered on tabling, volunteers, voter registration, petitioning, flyers, campaign materials and other miscellaneous issues. To learn more about the Kucinich campaign for President in 2008, go to … http://www.dennis4president.com/

Friday evening, September 7th, was the CHOOSE PEACE Benefit Concert hosted by New Yorkers for a Dept of Peace. Good thing I took a vacation day, as I spent the morning and portion of the afternoon baking cookies/brownies for the “guest gift bags”. Sadly, we didn’t have a great turnout, but those that showed up really enjoyed the musical acts [ie: Randi Driscoll, Free Radicalz & Emma’s Revolution] and our guest speakers, one of which was City Council member Robert Jackson. His 10 minute talk was very moving and inspiring. I was manning the NYDoP table, along with Cecilia, and we sold several DoP items, including four pairs of my peace bead style earrings. Along with another NYDoP member, I was in charge of collecting, sorting and then mailing out postcards to DNC/RNC. We had our audience fill out two postcards with their own messages of hope, peace and taking action. It was a long, but very fulfilling day, and I got home and in bed by 12:30am.

Friday, September 14th, did volunteer work for City Harvest at the Union Square farmers market.

Monday through Thursday, Sept 17th to 20th, I took a well deserved and relaxing mini vacation to my beloved Cape May in NJ. Stayed at the Hotel Macomber this time around and they even upgraded my room at no extra charge. In regards to my room; it was very comfortable with a decent view of Beach Avenue, promenade and the ocean. It even had cable TV and one night I watched part of a M*A*S*H marathon for 2 1/2 hours. Rented a bike for the time I was there, as I love pedaling all over the Cape May area. It’s a great form of exercise and good way to see the area, plus not have to worry about parking. Also, I took in a few exhibits; one was on hook rugs [see photo below] and the other on Victorian food/dining. In all the years of visiting Cape May I never once checked out the sunsets from Cove Beach.

This time I enjoyed the view every single night, along with a few dozen other folk. While on vacation I visited Harry and Regina at Twin Gables Inn. It was great seeing them and their sweet-natured Golden Retriever [Brandy]. They’ve had their inn on the real estate market for three years now. One sees in many parts of the US, many homes for sale, not very many buyers.

Saturday, September 22nd, I headed up to Yonkers to do volunteer work at the Ferret Shelter. Hadn’t been up there since June and I so miss the wee furballs. I took care of my duties; which consist of grooming, socializing and playing with the ferrets. One of the furkids kept on climbing into my lap during grooming phase and wanted to be cuddled. The sweetie just wanted extra snuggles. Plus take care of water bottles, wash the floors and put down fresh poopy papers. During tea break Joanne and I caught up on news and gossip.

On Sunday, September 23rd, I participated with several other members [ie: Howard, Eileen, Lori & Charlene] of NYDoP at the Marble Collegiate Church “Peace Day”. We were one of many groups and organizations tabling that day. The five of us sat in on the sermon before “Peace Day” started and I was quite impressed by it. The Marble Collegiate is a reformed, non denominational church with a diverse congregation. Felt nothing at all like attending a Catholic service. We did very well, with regards to “Peace Day”, and signed on many folk who were interested in learning more about DoP.

On Tuesday morning, September 25th, I took half a personal day, so that I could join hundreds of other protestors at a rally near the UN. The protest was against the war crimes of the Bush Regime, as W was speaking at the UN that day. Several other NYC Kucinich Team members [ie: Ben, Stephanie, Carol & Thomas] joined me in protesting this foul regime and handing out flyers on DJKs presidential campaign. Ran into several good acquaintances of mine, one of which announced his wife is due in February with their first baby. Happy news! Congrats Rob! Afterwards I joined my friend Linda to take a brief break at a local Starbucks and talk about political issues.

Friday, September 28th, did volunteer work for City Harvest at the Union Square farmers market.

On Sunday, September 30th, I helped out my friend Eileen [ie: production director] with the annual NYC Medieval Ren Faire up at Fort Tryon Park. This was my third time in volunteering for this faire and it’s always a lot of fun. Just like the last two years the weather held up nicely with comfortable temps and sunshine. This time around I was mostly responsible for security at the “performer/staff” enclosed area near the Tournament Field. During my break time I was able to check out the medieval vendors and their wares. All the volunteers had to wear costumes and the tunic/tabard made me look like a tall, slim Shrek.

Presidential "Democracy for America" Pulse PollMy dear friends ... I wanted to drop you a short note to ask for your help. DFA is holding a Presidential Primary Pulse Poll to decide which candidate deserves their support. I voted for Representative Dennis Kucinich and I want to keep him in first place.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

PERSONAL NEWS #129NOTE: Due to a busy summer with many projects on the front and back burner, plus doing my 9 to 5 office job, I’ve sadly neglected updating “Personal News” on a regular basis. My sincere apologies to regular viewers of the Duchess Blog. The following is a condensed version. Going forward I’ll work on being more frequent with updates. And now on with the news………………

On Saturday, July 21st, my friend Cielito and I did some tabling in Park Slope area for DoP and Share International. Weather was sunny and abit windy, plus I was having sinus issues. That evening we were invited to Thomas & Phoebe’s place for “movie nite”. Phoebe and Thomas treated us to freshly made lemonade, popcorn and watched a bizarre film called “Tideland” by Terry Gilliam.

Next day, July 22nd, I went to see the latest Harry Potter movie [Order of the Phoenix] at a cinema in Carroll Gardens [Brooklyn]. Very much enjoyed the film and most of the visuals were great. Only exception, I felt, being that of Grawp and the Centaurs. The actresses who played Umbridge and Bellatrix were brilliant. I’m still reading book seven, which I’d purchased late Friday evening.

On Tuesday, July 24th, I joined other NYDoP board members for our monthly meeting and this time it was held in Bryant Park. We had much to discuss, especially with the CHOOSE PEACE Benefit Concert coming up in early September. Upon arriving at home, after noshing on a lite dinner, I pretty much sat on the sofa until 12:30am to finish reading “Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows”. The last quarter of the book is like a roller coaster ride and Rowling ties up many loose ends. In the days and weeks that followed, I talked about the book with friends who also love the series. Many of us cried during chapter 34 and also when Dobby died. Personally, I was satisfied with the ending of the book, and felt that Rowling did a brilliant job. Let’s hope that the movie version does justice to it.

Saturday, July 28th, was “movie night” at my place and my friend Jackie joined me. We noshed on chips, cranberry juice, healthy green salad and ice cream. We watched “The Day After Tomorrow” with Dennis Quaid and “Sense & Sensibility” with Emma Thompson.

Thursday, August 2nd, was the monthly NYC Kucinich presidential campaign meetup at Bonobo’s. Attendance was up abit from previous month. Topics of discussion were on tabling, new Meetup locations, media, blogs, debates, petitioning and handing out campaign materials.

Friday evening, August 3rd, I attended Dawn and Bill’s wedding reception at the Flute Bar with my date [Phil]. Dawn is also a board member [like me] of NYDoP and she invited several of us to join in the festivities. As for Phil, well, we’d been corresponding for awhile via Yahoo Personals and this was our first date. Yeah, I know, not exactly appropriate for a first date, but he seemed game to give it a go. After the reception, which was champagne and nibblers, we went out to dinner at a nice Thai place on Westside. I enjoyed Phil’s company [very funny & entertaining], but knew it wouldn’t result in a second date. A lady can sense these things.

Saturday, August 4th, I was invited to my friend Linda’s home for “movie night”. We noshed on cantaloupe, lemonade and healthy green salad. We watched the 2006 remake of “The Pink Panther” and “Batman Begins”. Both were very good films and I highly recommend them.

On Thursday afternoon, August 9th, I attended a NY Mets baseball game at Shea Stadium with staff from my EY department. We all had a fun time and our seats were facing third base. Sadly the Mets did not play brilliantly and lost to the Atlanta Braves.

[Photo: Duchess with EY Team at Mets baseball game]

Saturday, August 11th, was my FLHS Class of 1977 30th Reunion. See review posted on Friday, August 24th, on Duchess Blog for more details.

Thursday, August 16th, I joined other NYDoP Core Team members for our monthly meeting. This evening we were provided musical entertainment by Cecilia St King and Vincenza Dante. They sang several peace and folk related songs, as well as wanting to lend their support to NYDoP. Not many Core Team members showed up, which was sad, as they missed a delightful evening. After the musical entertainment we conducted our meeting; which was mostly on CHOOSE PEACE Benefit Concert and the upcoming Peace Draft Bar Party.

On Saturday, August 18th, I headed down to Monroe Township [via one-hour bus ride from Port Authority] and visit my friend Sheila. Hadn’t seen her since December, when we check out holiday craft fairs in midtown Manhattan. Plus, I got to see Sheila’s lovely condo with pretty views from her balcony. We drove over to Princeton University and spent several delightful hours touring the campus and the town. I highly recommend folk make a day visit from Manhattan to see this campus town. It’s well worth it. One of my first jobs in NYC was briefly working for the manager of the Princeton Club. Ever since then I’ve always wanted to visit the university. A memorable moment, from my days working at Princeton Club, was seeing Jackie Kennedy Onassis in the lounge area.

[Photo: Duchess visiting Princeton University campus]

Thursday evening, August 23rd, I joined my friend Linda and some of her roommates in going to see a baseball game out in Coney Island. Well, we were suppose to see the NY Cyclones play, but due to continuous fog the game was cancelled after 2 ½ hours. Instead, we were entertained with actors from Medieval Faire. That was okay, but we all really wanted to see a ballgame. The stadium is actually quite nice, tickets are reasonably priced and there really isn’t a bad seat in the place.

Friday, August 24th, did volunteer work for City Harvest at the Union Square farmers market.

On Tuesday, August 28th, I attended the monthly NYDoP board meeting and it was again held in Bryant Park. Our main focus, with little over a week away, was on the final planning stages for CHOOSE PEACE Benefit Concert on Sept 7th. Very productive meeting and everyone went away with “assignments” leading up to the concert.

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to Linda in TX who shares such great articles.]MESSAGE FROM THE KUCINICH FOR PRESIDENT IN 2008 CAMPAIGN TEAMWe'd like to invite you to watch our first "Newsroom Broadcast". Our campaign has developed a new way of updating you on Dennis and Elizabeth's presidential campaign activities. We have produced our own news report. We'd like to invite you to watch our first "Newsroom Broadcast" at:

Monday, October 08, 2007

LATEST NEWS ON THE KUCINICH 2008 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN

Kucinich Was Right and the Other Candidates were Wrong!All the other candidates were wrong. Everytime they vote to fund the war, they are authorizing the war all over again.Check out this video at … http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9REGbr0nf1

Do We Really Need Money From China? Congressman Kucinich Addresses the US Economy in this Seven Minute YouTube Videohttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxpnAhPXp04Dennis Kucinich on the Front Page of Yoko’s IMAGINEPEACE.COMFind out more about this project here at … http://www.imaginepeace.com Make sure you send in your wish for PEACE! We can make peace happen. There are downloads and Gifs for your sites and blogs.

Dennis Kucinich talks about the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER in Reykjavik, Iceland, which Yoko Ono will unveil and dedicate to John Lennon on his birthday, October 9th 2007. http://www.imaginepeace.com/To see the video, go to … http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3-4X89CQk8Happy Birthday to Dennis Kucinich on October 8th AND the late John Lennon on October 9thLATEST NEWS FROM THE WEEKEND

[Duchess Note: How anyone can support or vote for this individual boggles the mind. She won’t be there for the poor and middle class Americans. Those who think she will, please, do the rest of us a favor and get your heads out of the sand. Her goal and agenda are for the rich, insurance companies, corporations, etc.]

[Duchess Note: This thuggish tyrant will continue to use and abuse 9/11 for rest of his life, just like the Bush Regime, whom he supports. This has got to stop! He didn’t do much for New Yorkers on or after 9/11. Those who helped out big time were first responders, firefighters, police force and many volunteers. They made sacrifices in their lives. Did Rudy? Hell no! Six years later many of those who helped out down at Ground Zero (plus live & worked in the area) have various serious health issues. Some have died from those health issues and others, like me, are still dealing with it every day. The Wall Street and Ground Zero area is still contaminated to this day with toxins, due to the fact that it was NOT properly cleaned. The truth must be told and Giuliani must be held accountable.]

[NOTE: Many thanks to Linda and Chris in sharing the above articles with the Duchess.]

Friday, October 05, 2007

The Message that Americans Should Hear - Dennis: from A to Z on PBS[Message from Dennis4President]

It's not all that often that your candidate, Dennis Kucinich, is given the opportunity to discuss the major domestic and international issues that are critically important to the vast majority of Americans: war, health care, the mortgage crisis, the impact of unfair trade agreements on American workers.

Tonight, he did. Tonight, he had a chance to say what he believes. What you believe.

Dennis speaks for us. Honestly, clearly, and emphatically. He says the things we want this nation, the White House, the Congress, and the world to hear. He is OUR voice, NOT bought or bossed by the multi-million dollar special interests that influence and control the other Democratic candidates.

If you believe in Dennis, if you believe in you OWN power to change this nation and change this world, share this video with everyone you know. Let them see and hear and learn for themselves how to make this nation great again. And proud. And prosperous. And, to the best of your ability, help keep his voice - your voice - loud and strong by making a contribution to the kind of future you want for yourselves, your children, and your grandchildren.

With your help, the nation and the world will ontinue to hear the truth. Your support and your involvement ill make a difference. Support the kind of America that you believe in. And support the only candidate who believes in you. Strength through Peace!

Tuesday, October 02, 2007

(Koo-sin-ich Re-Mix) Dennis 4 PresidentSharing a new video regarding Congressman Kucinich and the 2008 Presidential campaign. It's a fantastic video and should be seen by all. Video was produced by ForthPosition, whom I've known for several years. Take care ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-msLsxA_cV0

“Walk for Peace’ Takes to Streets of Austin, TXhttp://www.myfoxaustin.com/myfox/pages/ContentDetail?contentId=4500602Pro-peace activists took to Austin, TX streets for the 2nd Annual “Walk for Peace”. The “Walk for Peace” event took place around the US in different cities during September, which was International Peace month. Find out what participants had to say, and what federal organization they aim to create. Check out the link above for more info, or go to www.thepeacealliance.org

Monday, October 01, 2007

France Honors The Police & David LynchYork Daily Recordhttp://www.ydr.com/livingfull/ci_7052775The Police, fresh off a reunion concert in Paris, received a French award for their contribution to the arts Monday. French Culture Minister Christine Albanel honored the rock trio of Sting, Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers as chevaliers of the Order of Arts and Letters at a Paris ceremony.

[Photo: From left to right; British musicians Andy Summers and Sting with U.S. musician Stewart Copeland, of the rock band The Police, smile as they are awarded membership of the order of Art and Letter by French Culture Minister Christine Albanel at the Culture Ministry in Paris, Monday, October 1, 2007.]

Barbara Ehrenreich Blogs about the Issue - "We Have Seen the Enemy — And Surrendered"http://ehrenreich.blogs.com/barbaras_blog/Bow your heads and raise the white flags. After facing down the Third Reich, the Japanese Empire, the U.S.S.R., Manuel Noriega and Saddam Hussein, the United States has met an enemy it dares not confront-the American private health insurance industry. With the courageous exception of Dennis Kucinich, the Democratic candidates have all rolled out health "reform" plans that represent total, Chamberlain-like, appeasement.Edwards and Obama propose universal health insurance plans that would in no way ease the death grip of Aetna, Unicare, MetLife, and the rest of the evil-doers. Clinton-why are we not surprised?-has gone even further, borrowing the Republican idea of actually feeding the private insurers by making it mandatory to buy their product. Will I be arrested if I resist paying $10,000 a year for a private policy laden with killer co-pays and deductibles?

[Duchess Note: Bravo Ehrenreich & Kucinich in speaking out the truth on the horrible "health insurance industry" here in the US. Also, on this topic, watch the Michael Moore film SICKO. This is a real eye opener of a documentary and important for ALL Americans to see. We The People can make a change in this country. All it takes is one step at a time and coming together as one. We can do it!]NEWS FROM THE KUCINICH FOR PRESIDENT IN 2008 CAMPAIGN

Signatures Required to get Kucinich on the Ballot for the Following States. This is Important! Pass the Word Along to Those Supporters in the States Below. They are:

State Number Filing Deadline. . . .Illinois 5000 by November 3, 2008Virginia 10000 by December 14, 2007New York 5000 by December 6, 2007Arkansas 5000 by December 17, 2007Texas 5000 January 2, 2008South Carolina 3000 by December 14, 2007Tennessee 2500 by December 4, 2007New Jersey 1000 by December 10, 2007Vermont 1000 January 14, 2008Alabama 500 December 7, 2007

[Duchess Note: I’m on the NYC Kucinich Team and we are on the lookout for volunteers to help collect petition signatures. Petitioning starts on October 30th and ends December 3rd. To sign up and join the NYC Kucinich Team, go to http://denniskucinich.meetup.com/326/ … Our next meetup is this Thursday, October 4th. Join us to learn the latest or read the message board at website. Be peace……….]

OFFICIAL STATEMENT from Dennis Kucinich on the SCHIP BILLKucinich: SCHIP Bill Fails To Provide Health Coverage For Legal Immigrant Children ... Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH), issued the following statement after voting against the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) conference report today:

“I cannot support legislation which extends health coverage to some children while openly denying it to other children,” Kucinich said. “This legislation is woefully inadequate: and I will not support it. Legal immigrant children deserve the same quality health care as other children receive. It is Congress’ responsibility to address the main difficulties that prevent legal immigrant children from gaining access to health care. Today, we did exactly the opposite. HR 676 guarantees full health care coverage for all children. When considering a universal health care proposal, HR 676, the Medicare for All bill, is the only health care plan that addresses three important issues: quality, accessibility, and cost. HR 676 stands alone in an increasingly crowded field of efforts to provide health care coverage to all,” Kucinich said.

Kucinich voted for the original House-passed version of the bill because it contained language to grant health coverage for legal immigrant children. However, in today’s bill, this language was omitted.

ON 9/26/07 AT THE DEBATES, DENNIS PROMISED TO BRING THE TROOPS HOME IN 3 MONTHS, IF HE IS ELECTED PRESIDENT... This video is not from the debates, but its Dennis speaking about the current war. Please hear what he has to say. If elected, Dennis will END the war! He IS qualified for the job! Check out the video today … http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEgdupfWai8